I was asked this month to review a full length feature from filmmaker Joseph F. Alexandre called Psychotropic Overload who noted in advance that it was an early film and that he has grown as an artist since then. So, with that he also sent me one of his more recent works; the short documentary Warriors of the Discotheque. As I found Psychotropic to be so bizarre and interesting I figured I would do a review for this other film as well. Although we're talking about two entirely different beasts completely, I think I've gathered what Alexandre was referring to as I watched the documentary. This short expounds on the exploits of the Starck Club in Dallas Texas. A club created by Philippe Starck a industrial designer who was really an artists' artist. Keeping his project far from the boundaries of convention, the Starck club stood as a testimony that art and commerce could come together as one and create something universally appearing. The club is also well known for it's selling of MDMA (AKA: Ecstasy) right over the counter before the DEA made it a drug. The documentary basically explores the impact that the drug, sex, fashion and musical culture had on this art club set out in the most unlikely of places.

Hearing Alexandre's first hand accounts of his own Starck Club experience helps to evaluate his style even more. His exposure to art and artists no doubt had some effect on his life and I wouldn't be surprised what kind of influence it has had on his work since then. The club was known to host all forms of art from up and coming bands like The Red Hot Chili Peppers to performance artists who pushed the boundaries of societal acceptance. It was a wild time where young people came together in order to experience their first tastes of life and these kinds of situations always help to inspire generations. The interior design looked like something out of a science fiction movie and as one of the commentators said about 80% of those visiting the club likely never thought about the 'why' or the 'how' of any of these bizarre creations, but it was part of the aesthetic and it helped to felicitate the culture. Growing up in the 90's with no real rebellious years, it's hard to imagine being a part of such a huge and entirely different movement, but for those who were a part of it they have certainly taken a lot from it and had it shape their lives.

Alexandre's direction for the documentary is done smoothly. Between breaks of text we're given some stylish music all throughout that helps evoke the mood of the era best, while the commentators give their detailed description of the events surrounding Club Stark. The actual photography is done quite well and looks clean and pristine. The shots of Alexandre talking in what appears to be a parking garage of some sort are really excellent. It just looks like one of those interesting locations that gives off a lot of great ambient lighting. The editing is also brisk and to the point, running along through each different facet of the club. Giving equal amounts of coverage from one amazing anecdote to the next. It's certainly an interesting watch to say the least. Would highly recommend checking it out if given the chance, especially for those interested in 80's club culture and likely a MUST HAVE for anyone who was able to participate in any of the madness. If only to get a taste of that youthful expressionism that a young generation helped to participate in.

You can check out the trailer for the film here, and pick up a copy for yourself here.